Chris Jericho was widely expected to make a surprise return at the 2026 Royal Rumble, with many fans and bettors anticipating his appearance. However, when the event concluded without Jericho stepping into the ring, uncertainty grew regarding his current status and his future within AEW.
Confirmation That Jericho Remains Under AEW Contract
Answers emerged during the February 1 edition of Fightful’s post-Royal Rumble show, where it was confirmed that Jericho never became a free agent and continues to be contractually tied to AEW. This clarification put to rest rumors that his deal had expired at the end of 2025.
Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp directly addressed the issue by referencing AEW’s official roster listing.
As of today, Chris Jericho is still listed on AEW’s roster page, which is a great indication of whether somebody is still with the company. And Chris Jericho has not left the company as of yet.
— Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist
Misunderstandings About Contract Status Fuel Speculation
The confusion stemmed from earlier assumptions that Jericho’s contract had expired, a claim that circulated widely online before being quietly disproven. Sapp pointed out that whether Jericho’s agreement was frozen or extended is unclear, but stating definitively that his contract ended was inaccurate.
Whether it’s because his deal got frozen or they extended it, that I don’t know. But when I saw people outright saying, ‘Oh, his deal is officially up’ no. It was not officially up. It was presumably up, and that was incorrect.
— Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist
Jericho’s Low Profile Within AEW Adds to Uncertainty
Another factor contributing to confusion was the minimal internal discussion about Jericho within AEW in recent months, a detail also highlighted by Sapp. Despite this, Jericho remains under contract and has not departed from the company.
He hasn’t been discussed a lot backstage in AEW. So it’s pretty interesting. His deal isn’t up. Jericho is still under contract to AEW at this stage.
— Sean Ross Sapp, Wrestling Journalist
Outside Projects Limit Jericho’s Availability for AEW
Beyond wrestling, Jericho has been busy with major outside commitments. He is set to appear in the Apple TV series Margo’s Got Money Troubles, premiering on April 15, while his band Fozzy prepares to launch the Eyes On You tour later this month. These engagements are likely to restrict his chances of making surprise appearances for AEW or other wrestling promotions in the near term.
What Jericho’s Status Means for AEW and Fans
Despite fan hopes for a dramatic last entrant spot at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Jericho’s situation is straightforward: he remains under contract with AEW. His continued affiliation suggests that, for now, no sudden appearances are forthcoming outside his existing commitments. This clarification should settle lingering doubts about his involvement in the wrestling world moving forward.
